Chemosis shows no sign of improvement after aggressive lubrication, cold compresses and gentle massage

Question

It's been 3 weeks since my face lift/blepharoplasty. My right eye has chemosis. My surgeon outlined a program of artificial tears and patching at night. After four days of keeping the conjuncta moist, I saw no results whatsoever. After 3 more days of 24 hour patching, my chemosis is the same. My question: If I am truly keeping the area lubed, should I be seeing results by now? Is there another component to the resolution of chemosis other than keeping the conjuncta from drying out?

James H. Rogers, MD · Answer

Chemosis is edema of the conjunctiva, or outer covering of the eyeball. It not infrequently occurs after primarily lower eyelid surgery, especially if a canthopexy or more aggressive procedure is performed. Other than looking undesirable, it typically is asymtomatic. Regardless of treatment regimen, it sometimes can persist for several weeks or more.

Salvatore Pacella, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Chemosis is very disconcerting for patients.  But rest-assured it is self limiting.  It can be stubborn to resolve.  Eyelid closure is key.  In my patients in which chemosis persists for weeks, I use a Frost suture/temporary tarssoraphy.  this is a small stitch placed at the corner of the eye to assist with eyelid closure.  This can be a very effective treatment

Erik Miles, MD, FACS · Answer

Chemosis can sometimes occur after eyelid surgery.   It is typically self-limited.   I would generally recommend steroids for the condition.   Discuss this with your surgeon. Best wishes to you!

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

See following link for more details on chemosis. I cannot tell you specifically what you should do without examination. Discuss with your surgeon and/or see an oculoplastic specialist.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

Chemosis can be very slow to resolve and can take many weeks.  Your doctor is correct in trying to keep it well lubricated.  So lots of artificial tears and ointment at bedtime.  Patching may also help.  I have patients massage the lid up over the chemosis to try and put some pressure on the area.  Frequently the lid may be a little low on that side which contributes to the chemosis.  And the chemosis if severe can push the lid down. If it doesn't clear then more aggressive measures can be tried.  For this you should see an oculoplastic surgeon.  Unfortunately there is no one thing that works every time so it can be frustrating for all of us.

Damon B. Chandler, MD · Answer

Without photos and/or and examination, it is impossible for anyone to comment specifically on your situation. That being said, eyelid surgery (like all facial surgery) takes 6 months to 1 year to heal.  3 weeks after facelift and blepharoplasty is a very short time period post op -- typically chemosis will resolve completely if given enough time (but of course there are exceptions if there are surgical complications).  
For most of my patients with persistent chemosis (which has been uncommon in my career), time and lubrication and (sometimes) steroid based eye drops/ointment help this condition resolve.
I would seek out only a board-certified, fellowship-trained Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon to offer assistance. 
Best of luck in your healing.

Justin P. Martin, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question.  Chemosis can sometimes occur after blepharoplasty and rest assured that it will resolve with time - this can take a few weeks in some cases.  In my practice, I have found that some of the more refractory cases respond well to steroid eye drops or a short course of oral steroids.  I would recommend discussing this with your surgeon.  Best of luck with your recovery!

Chemosis shows no sign of improvement after aggressive lubrication, cold compresses and gentle massage

Answers (7)

More Eyelid Surgery Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (7)

More Eyelid Surgery Questions

I have festoons/malar mounds from sun damage, is there a way to reduce them?

Visible upper blepharoplasty scars, 2 years post op! Help! What treatment should I go for? (Photo)

Is there a way to correct narrow eyes?

Chalazion/Lower eyelid cyst. Had internal sty and chalazion incision surgery. (photo)

When can go back to the gym? And when I can start sunbathing?

I desire almond eyes, how do I achieve this look?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS